Abstract: An information display shelter includes at least a canopy, a supporting structure, a receiving device, and a signaling path. The canopy includes a display area on at least one surface thereof. The supporting structure is connected to and supports the canopy over a sheltered area defined by a width and a length of a parking space. The supporting structure is configured so as to permit substantially unobstructed access to the sheltered area and viewing of the display area. The receiving device is operable to receive and process a signal including images to be displayed. The signaling path couples the receiving device to the canopy and facilitates communication of the images to the canopy for display in the display area.

Abstract: The present invention relates to a new gutter-mounted protection system for use in the construction, remodeling and renovating fields, and more particularly, to a device, system, and method for protecting a gutter, siding or landscape from damage during construction activities. The invention may also be used to temporarily create an area protected from weather.

Abstract: A vehicle barrier arranged for moving from a first position that permits a vehicle to move past the vehicle barrier to a second position that prevents a vehicle from moving past the vehicle barrier, and a light mounted on the vehicle barrier that moves with the vehicle barrier, wherein when the vehicle is in the first position the light is illuminated in a first color (e.g., green) and in the second position the light is illuminated in a second color (e.g., red).

Abstract: An overhang falsework for supporting a debris shield on an outward side of an I-beam used in an overhead frame structure comprises an elongated base member extending in a longitudinal direction transverse to the I-beam between an inner end and an outer end wherein said outer end is on the outward side of the I-beam. The falsework further includes a clamp connected to the member between the inner and outer ends for selectively securing the falsework to the I-beam in an installed condition on the I-beam. The base member has a multi-component construction including a metal component extending between the inner and outer ends and a non-metal or wooden component extending at least partially between the inner and outer ends which is secured to the metal component. The non-metal or wooden layer provides a medium for nailing or screwing a horizontal panel portion or base sheet of the debris shield to the falsework, and the metal layer provides support.

Abstract: An overhang falsework for supporting a debris shield on an outward side of an I-beam used in an overhead frame structure comprises an elongated base member extending in a longitudinal direction transverse to the I-beam between an inner end and an outer end wherein said outer end is on the outward side of the I-beam. The falsework further includes a clamp connected to the member between the inner and outer ends for selectively securing the falsework to the I-beam in an installed condition on the I-beam. The base member has a multi-component construction including a metal component extending between the inner and outer ends and a non-metal or wooden component extending at least partially between the inner and outer ends which is secured to the metal component. The non-metal or wooden layer provides a medium for nailing or screwing a horizontal panel portion or base sheet of the debris shield to the falsework, and the metal layer provides support.

Abstract: A construction platform comprising a stationary support structure adapted to be fixedly secured to the floor of a building under construction and project from the edge of the building to a predetermined maximum extent, and a movable deck mounted on the stationary structure which may be extended as a cantilever therefrom or retracted into at least substantial registration therewith.

Abstract: A modular louvered shutter includes first and second stiles and a center section assembled using a tongue and groove joint. The center section is a solid piece have a plurality of rails and louvers cut into the center section.

Abstract: In a dock unit for maintenance of aircraft there is provided, in addition to an outer support which supportingly engages against a frame disposed parallel to the longitudinal axis of the aircraft in the vicinity of the end of said frame and is adjustable, a further support which is located further in and is likewise adjustable. The distance between the two supports is greater than the largest dimension of the wings of the aircraft to be maintained, measured in the longitudinal direction of the fuselage. One of the supports can therefore be temporarily retracted in order to move a wing past and below this support.

Abstract: A novel airplane shelter provides a plurality of arched vertical support members arranged axially along a line corresponding to the fuselage of an airplane to be sheltered. A cantilevered beam is attached to the apex of each arched vertical support member, forming a “spine” along the top of the aligned arched support members. The cantilevered beam is attached at one end to the rearwardmost arched support member, and the opposite end extends forwardly past the forwardmost arched support member to a point corresponding to the forwardmost point of an airplane to be sheltered. Separate lateral support members are placed at points corresponding to the wingtips of the airplane. The result is an open frame that defines a volume capable of enclosing an airplane. A covering material is placed over the open frame and stretched taut over the entire structure.

Abstract: The present invention relates to a modular screening assembly for a piece of equipment on the roof of a building. The assembly includes two perpendicular sets of channels that are rigidly secured to and cantilevered from a base of the equipment. Each channel set has one or two sets of common ends. A vertically oriented framework formed by a number of frame sections is secured to the common ends. Each frame section is secured to one set of common ends and spaced a uniform distance from the equipment. Each frame section is formed by one or more like-shaped frame segments. Each frame segment holds one like-shaped panel. Two or more modular screening assemblies can be combined to form an integrated screening assembly around several pieces of equipment. Two or more tiers of framework and panels can be stacked vertically to attain a desired screening height.

Abstract: A protective shield for a wall includes a flexible, moisture-proof protective sheet. The sheet has an array of mounting holes formed in its upper edge. The protective sheet is placed against a wall and secured thereto by tapered anchor pins driven through the mounting holes and into weep holes formed in the wall.

Abstract: The installation of a garden window which encloses an opening in the wall of a building is effected by installing a support structure above the wall opening from which the garden window can be hung, then hanging the garden window from this structure in opening closing position and then permanently securing same to the wall. Also included in the invention are the garden window itself and its hanger support to facilitate such installation.

Abstract: A swivel joint apparatus for supplying utilities to a rotating building rotatable about a central axis has an inner, fixed spindle for securing to a fixed base of the building to extend co-axially with a central axis of rotation of the building, and an outer casing rotatably mounted on the spindle for securing to the rotatable part of the building. The spindle has a series of spaced annular flanges defining a series of annular chambers and at least one ring seal mounted on the peripheral edge of each flange for rotatable sealing engagement with the outer casing so that the casing forms an outer wall of each of the annular chambers. A lower end wall of the spindle has a plurality of ports for connection to fixed utility lines in the base for fluid supply to and from the building, each port connected through the spindle to a respective annular chamber.

Abstract: Sliding roof shed, especially apt to provide shelter from the sun, rain, hail, snow to large surfaces such as parking lots in shopping centers or the like, which consists of a supporting structure defined by L profiles separately arranged, among which the surface to be covered is defined, from which the vertical post is integral of the ground and the remaining longitudinal beam is away from the ground as much as necessary. A laminar sheltering surface is placed between two horizontal posts, away from each other, which may be defined by a cloth, canvas, plastic sheet or the like, rectangular frame, which presents, in correspondence with its lateral edges, several interface accessories each of which holds at least one wheel that slides on a rail affixed to the above-referred longitudinal beam. Devices helping operator move the sheltering surface may be added, such as a rod affixed to its free extremes or a mechanism having steel wires affixed to its edge, together with an operating handle.

Abstract: A shelter capable of producing electrical energy is provided. The shelter includes a canopy which defines a sheltered area, a photovoltaic device capable of producing an electrical current when exposed to a light source (sunlight or artificial light), and a supporting structure to support the canopy and permit unobstructed access to the sheltered area. An electrical load is operatively connected to the photovoltaic device for utilizing the electricity generated by the photovoltaic device when the photovoltaic device is exposed to light. The shelter is well-suited to protect vehicles in large parking lots from the sun and other elements while simultaneously providing an alternate energy source.

Abstract: A retractable enclosure system for providing outdoor comfort to individuals adjacent to a building. The retractable enclosure system includes a housing attachable to a building structure, a foldable frame attached to the housing and/or building structure, and a covering surrounding the foldable frame. The foldable frame preferably includes a plurality of support members connected to one another by a plurality of lower extension members and upper extension members. A plurality of support cables are preferably dispensed from a cable reel within the housing adjacent to the upper portions of the support members for providing additional support to the covering. The covering is preferably comprised of a netting for allowing enjoyment of the exterior surroundings while preventing the entry of insects.

Abstract: A floor grommet for use in building and office structures supplied with air conditioning via under floor plenum. Directed flow of conditioned air is optimized by limiting the escape of air from the plenum into the space above the floor by leakage through floor openings provided for power cables, data cables and the like. Specialized floor grommets installed in the cable openings are comprised of a surrounding frame mounting sealing elements comprised of thin, flexible elements which are anchored at one end in the grommet frame and extend toward the center of the opening, from each side, to effectively close the opening against significant flow of conditioned air from the plenum below. Cables passing through the grommet opening cause minimal deflection of the flexible elements to limit the escape of conditioned air. Preferably, the resilient, flexible elements are filamentary in nature.

Abstract: A carport is provided having a rigid, concave canopy composed of a rigid self-supporting material and which has a width and length larger than that of a standard size automobile. The carport further includes a supporting structure that is rigidly connected to and extends vertically from the canopy. The carport still further includes a horizontally extending longitudinally extending support member that is rigidly secured to the supporting structure and laterally spaced from the canopy.

Abstract: The present invention relates to a modular screening assembly for a piece of equipment on the roof of a building. The assembly includes two perpendicular sets of channels that are rigidly secured to and cantilevered from a base of the equipment. Each channel set has one or two sets of common ends. A vertically oriented framework formed by a number of frame sections is secured to the common ends. Each frame section is secured to one set of common ends and spaced a uniform distance from the equipment. Each frame section is formed by one or more like-shaped frame segments. Each frame segment holds one like-shaped panel. Two or more modular screening assemblies can be combined to form an integrated screening assembly around several pieces of equipment. Two or more tiers of framework and panels can be stacked vertically to attain a desired screening height.

Abstract: In a sun room awning comprising a roll bar for rolling up an awning sheet under formation of a sheet roll and lateral guide rails for guiding the awning sheet while it is being extended, provision is made, to attain a drop-out range, to implement new awning configurations and to avoid the shortcomings of conventional pull systems, for the awning sheet to have push straps with an inherent stiffness in the direction of extension that can be rolled up together with the awning sheet.

Abstract: Asphalt composition ridge cover formed from an approximately rectangular sheet of asphalt composition roofing material. The sheet of asphalt composition material is bent around a radius along a longitudinal centerline. The roofing material may be bent by pressing the roofing material into a resilient pad with a tool having the radius. The roofing material may include an accordion folded section to support an overlapping ridge cover. The accordion folded section may include a relief for the bend around a radius.

Abstract: The present invention provides, in one embodiment, an awning that permits light and air to enter the structure to which the awning is attached, that can be utilized to protect against major storms, and that can pass strict building code standards testing. The awning includes a perimeter framework that is adapted to receive a removable rigid support plate. In an alternate embodiment, the invention provides a shutter that is inexpensive, easy and quick to manufacture, that can provide protection against major storms, and that can pass strict building code standards testing. The shutter includes modular louver sections that have an integral rigid backing plate.

Abstract: A high strength window screen frame is hinged for opening. The frame has a stationary frame and a movable frame. The stationary frame attaches to a building. The stationary frame has a protective lip extending forward from its perimeter. The movable frame is secured to the stationary frame by a hinge. The movable frame has a perimeter with a beveled side edge to allow opening of the movable frame without interference with the lip. A screen is secured to the movable frame.

Abstract: A portable shelter for a tree blind including an upper tree gripping bracket and a tension member extending from the upper tree gripping bracket and operatively connecting to an overhead frame. A vertical spacing member maintains a vertical distance between the upper tree gripping bracket and a lower tree gripping bracket. A compressive member extends between the vertical spacing member and the overhead frame and the compressive member is adjustable relative to the vertical member. A rain fly covers the overhead frame.

Abstract: Disclosed is a rotary bungalow, comprising a cabin forming an inner space therein; a hollow rotary shaft extended downward from the cabin; a support unit rotatably supporting the rotary shaft; a water tank installed under the cabin; a water pipe extended between the water tank and the cabin through the rotary shaft; and a water pump drawing in the water within the water tank through the water pipe to the cabin. With this configuration, the user is allowed to use the rotary bungalow conveniently and pleasantly.

Abstract: A device and method for mounting an exterior cantilevered beam to a building holds the exterior cantilevered beam away from the building and provides superior waterproofing. In some embodiments, a strap member is used to spread loading forces onto interior building support members that are arranged perpendicular to an exterior wall of the building. In other embodiments of the invention, mounting members that include necks extending through exterior walls and away from the walls are used to mount an exterior cantilevered beam to the building, and to keep the exterior beam supported away from the exterior wall.

Abstract: A retractable awning for a recreational vehicle is provided wherein the awning is stored behind a pivoting door that closes flush with the side of the recreational vehicle when the awning is not deployed over a slide-out unit. The pivoting door is adjacent the awning and the pivoting door closes flush with the side of the recreational vehicle with the awning enclosed in its side mounted compartment. With the retractable awning completely behind the plane defining the side of the recreational vehicle and protected by a locking door, the awning does not add any additional unwanted width to the recreational vehicle and is protected from unfurling during transport. An automatic locking mechanism is provided for ensuring that the door remains closed during transportation. Further, a debris clearing mechanism is preferably installed adjacent the spool which collects the retractable awning as it retracts, thereby cleaning the awning of debris prior to its withdrawal into the compartment.

Abstract: The L-shaped, end cap is adapted to be mounted on a concrete balcony. The balcony has a rise (a vertical height) an upper run and a lower run. The end cap is an L-shaped end piece having a front plate and a lower plate. The front plate of the end piece has a plate rise substantially equivalent to the concrete balcony rise. The L-shaped end piece has a depending lip along the interface between the plate rise and the lower plate run. The depending lip is adapted to collect and disperse water droplets therefrom. Preferably, the end piece is made of pultruded fiberglass. However, the end piece may be made of plastic, stainless steel, copper, aluminum or other similar materials. For example, pultruded fiberglass may be utilized as the end piece. A method of capping a concrete balcony includes covering the rise and a portion of the lower balcony run by adhering plastic thereon and forming, with the plastic, a depending drip edge.

Abstract: In an awning comprising a roller tube for winding up an awning fabric, wherein the roller tube is actuated in the winding direction by a torsion spring, provision is made for the roller tube to be disposed in a housing and supported with its one end in a first face-end cover of the housing, and for the torsion spring to be disposed in the interior of this first end of the roller tube, and for the roller tube to be supported in the region of its opposite second end via a bearing journal extending away from a face-end cover.

Abstract: An overhanging form system for attachment to a support structure is disclosed. The support structure includes an upper portion and a lower portion, and the overhanging form system comprises a pair of spaced apart hangers, with each of the hangers being adapted to engage the upper portion of the support structure. A pair of frames are provided, with each of the frames having a first portion and a second portion. The first portion of each frame engages a corresponding one of the hangers, the second portion of each frame is adapted to engage the lower portion of the support structure. Each of the frames further includes a first leg and a second leg, with the first leg having an inner end disposed adjacent the first portion of the frame and an outer end disposed outwardly from the first portion of the frame. The second leg extends from the second portion of the frame to engage the outer end of the first leg. A plurality of stiffeners are provided.

Abstract: A structural system and methodology for erecting a shading structure. The system and methodology provides for a rapid and fool proof installation of the shading element over a canopy structure. The shading element is coupled into a locking mechanism on a perimeter beam which rotates to increase effective the effective surface area of the canopy structure thereby providing the correct amount of tension to the shading element, thereby completing the installation process.

Abstract: A metal canopy for a structure has an expansion strut which is directly affixed to a wall of the structure and at least one panel assembly for attachment to the expansion strut. More than one of the expansion struts may be affixed to the wall in abutting relationship to lengthen the span of the canopy. The expansion strut has flanges around its edges for attachment of the panel assembly or assemblies. A plurality of outwardly angled tabs are also positioned on the strut. Each of the panel assemblies has at least two panels, each of which has an upwardly extending flange along each of its sides, with adjacent panels aligned with corresponding flanges in abutting relationship. The panel assembly also has first and second end pieces affixed to an outside edge of the panel assembly along the outside edge of the outermost panels, with the end pieces having a bottom edge and a side edge.

Abstract: The invention is an improved rigid awning structure which permits some regulation of pass-through light and which may be constructed attached to a building or free standing. The invention provides slated louver sets arranged one above the other in banks of at least two sets. At least one of the louver sets in each bank is slidably movable to achieve the regulation of pass through-light. The invention may be constructed utilizing many conventional frame building methods and materials.

Abstract: A load bearing device is disclosed, which includes a girder to support the load. The girder is accommodated in a housing connected to the load and can be pulled out from the house to engage a girder receptacle, which is fastened to a wall or the like. By means of this bearing device, it is possible to mount prefabricated structural elements such as stairway landings in easy manner.

Abstract: A self-supporting structure protects individuals from solar ultraviolet radiation without obstructing their views. The structure is formed from a substantially transparent substrate to which is applied an ultraviolet radiation absorbing material. A photochromic component can also be added to the substrate. The structure can be used as a golf cart or marine vessel canopy, as a building awning or canopy, as a window blind, or for any other application where a substantially transparent self-supporting structure that absorbs ultraviolet radiation is needed.

Abstract: A modularly constructed storage structure with mezzanine access. The storage structure is provided in the form of a row of storage cabinets stacked on top of each other thereby providing base cabinets and upper storage cabinets. The storage cabinets have internal supporting structural framework which include vertical front and back beams and horizontal side beams with the frameworks of the stacked cabinets interconnected, and the vertical back beams of the base cabinets are also secured to an underlying supporting floor. The mezzanine structure, which is attached to the cabinet structure, includes a plurality of spaced horizontally aligned cantilever beams of predetermined length which penetrate the storage structure and are respectively connected directly or indirectly to front and back vertical beams of the cabinet structure. Overhang ends of these cantilever beams extend beyond the front face of the cabinet structure for cantilevered support thereon of a mezzanine deck.

Abstract: The present invention is directed to building modules, each having a portion of an ellipse as seen in cross-section, which can be interconnected to form a modular building structure having substantially unrestricted interior space, comprising at least two each having a portion of an ellipse as seen in cross-section without the use of interior supports. The shape of each building module of the present invention is selected such that when two are connected, the resulting building structure defines three spaces each having a portion of an ellipse as seen in cross-section. When four are connected, the resulting building structure defines six each having a portion of an ellipse as seen in cross-section. Similarly, additional building modules can be added, providing a system for preparing a building structure with a multitude of spaces each having a portion of an ellipse as seen in cross-section.

Abstract: The invention is a pre-fabricated boat lift canopy constructed of galvanized steel or aluminum tubing. All joints are crimped to a tight, permanent fit by using a special rolling tool. The canopy frame is mounted on "I" beams of existing boat lifts, docks, or pilings. The canopy frame is then covered with a water tight and sunlight resistant decorative canopy. Wind spoilers, in the form of canvas strips, are fastened to the peak of the canopy, a continuous strip, horizontally across the top, a strip at each end, and a third strip at the center.

Abstract: An apparatus for constructing a gondola canopy comprising an outrigger arm with means for adjusting the length of such arm, an adapting plate attached to the outrigger arm, a fascia board removably attached to the adapting plate, means for removably attaching the adapting plate to the fascia board, and means for adjusting the height of the fascia board.

Abstract: A tree structure includes three vertically spaced-apart annular members extending about the trunk of a tree. Each annular member has a plurality of pointed members extending downwardly and inwardly into the trunk. The first annular member is below the second annular member and above the third annular member. The first and third annular members have joist supports and the second annular member has cable anchors. Joists extend radially outwards from the joist supports. Outer members are connected perpendicularly to the joists to form first and second outer rings extending about the first and third annular members. There are two platforms mounted on the joists. First cables are connected between the second annular member and the first ring. Second cables are connected between the first ring and the second ring. A roof extends over the first cables. Outer walls extend between the outer rings.

Abstract: A safety canopy for use with a doorway in a wall is provided. The canopy is rigid and puncture-resistant, and is fixed to the wall and extends from the wall above the doorway downwardly away from the wall to a fixed margin edge, which is positioned approximately level with the top of the doorway. The canopy is positioned and has sufficient size to shelter an individual from objects falling from above the doorway. For additional support of the canopy, a plurality of vertical canopy support braces may be fixed to the canopy margin edge, extending downwardly to a support surface, such as a floor. Vertically oriented pillars may also be included on one side of the wall, extending from the support surface upwardly to the juncture of the wall and canopy. Angled canopy support braces may then be fixed to the canopy margin edge and angled downwardly to intersect the pillars, thereby providing additional support to the canopy for preventing the canopy from collapsing under load.

Abstract: A wind and sun barrier includes a barrier panel with a barrier screen effective to reduce wind velocity and to produce shade, the barrier panel pivotally mounted between a pair of support posts. The barrier panel may be pivoted from a vertical position, for blocking wind, to a horizontal position, providing shade thereunder. Releasable lock mechanisms are provided to maintain the barrier in the desired position. A plurality of barrier panels may be aligned between a plurality of posts, to form an elongated barrier wall oriented either vertically or horizontally, depending upon the weather conditions.

Abstract: A structure assembled of aluminum alloy extrusion and sheathing such as composite particle board for use as porches, balconies, or the like. The parts include posts, a frame having corner fasteners, and channel type beams supported by the frame and secured to the frame by fasteners in a manner requiring a minimum of on-site drilling of holes in the aluminum alloy parts.

Abstract: A platform support device for temporary attachment to a vertical side of a structure, e.g. for supporting planks on which a tradesman can stand while installing soffit, has an elongate upright member with an attachment portion at an upper end of the upright member. The attachment portion is formed with a flat face for abutment against the structure and with nail holes interrupting the flat face for receiving therethrough the heads of nails projecting from the structure, whereby the support can be suspended from the structure at a height determined by the locations of the nails. A pair of arms extending laterally outwardly from opposite sides of the upright member at a lower end of the upright member for stabilizing abutment against the structure. A horizontal support projects forwardly from the lower end of the upright member; and a reinforcement extends between and is fixed to the top of the support and the front of the upright member.

Abstract: The control room of an airport control tower is octagonal and has windows at at least two ends of the room, and work stations for controllers adjacent these windows. Each of the two windows extends along three adjoining sides of the room, and the work station is disposed behind the window at the middle of the three sides. The controller at each work station has a lateral field of view of at least 180.degree. unobstructed by mullions or other structural supporting elements. The windows are composed of planar transparent panels, and sealing elements which pose no significant obstruction to vision are provided at the joints between the panels.

Abstract: The invention relates to an articulated arm awning with a pivoted cloth shaft for the awning cloth, which can be extended to its position of use under pretension and which is attached to a fall bar at its other end, and with only a single articulated arm (6, 7) subject to an elongating force, whereby a device generating an elongating force is provided at the joint connecting the articulated arm with the fall bar (4) which spans this joint. A further element (11) is provided after the fall bar joint (10) and connected with this joint, whereby this element serves to secure and/or hold one end of the device (14) generating an elongating force for this joint, and whereby this element runs essentially parallel to the fall bar (4) and is preferably integrated in the latter.

Abstract: A structural assembly for preventing load distortion of a cantilever supported upper seat and foot supporting deck of a multi-tiered telescopic bleacher assembly which comprises a series of horizontally spaced vertically adjustable, floor engaging posts adapted to be anchored to a vertical supporting wall and underlying floor intermediate the support columns of the bleacher assembly. Each post carries a horizontal support beam and angle bracket at its upper end that extends beneath and is joined to the top row of bleacher seats and the foot supporting deck associated therewith to reinforce the bleacher's normal support framing against undesired deflection and bending.

Abstract: A post for mounting in a concrete slab is disclosed. The post has an elongated rigid body with a mounting end. A pair of mounting rods extend from the mounting end. The body of the post is formed from an extruded aluminum shell. The mounting rods extend through channels which are formed in the shell and are held in place in the channels by an expandable grout. The expandable grout both holds the mounting rods in the shell and acts with the mounting rods to reinforce the shell. The shell is preferably in the form of a pair of tubes joined by a web. Attachments may be made to the post with fasteners which pass through apertures in the web. The post is quick to install, may be mounted close to the edge of a concrete slab with reduced risk of damage to the edge of the slab, and is extremely rigid.

Abstract: A canopy for overhanging a door or window and the method of assembling the canopy to the wall. The assembly including a pair of channel assemblies mounted in a spaced relation between the structural girts of the wall over the door or window, a frame assembly having an angle member on each side for connecting the assembly to the channel assemblies, a roof-trim assembly mounted on the frame assembly and a soffit sheet mounted on the bottom of the roof-trim assembly to enclose the roof-trim assembly.